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Welsh Markets to Display bTB History on Screens

Wales, UK - Livestock markets in Wales will soon be able to display the TB testing records of cattle on screens, enabling farmers to make informed buying decisions.

The markets will be able to apply for a grant to upgrade their facilities with display boards and screen equipment.

Rebecca Evans, the Deputy Minister for Farming and Food, said: “Our approach to tackling bovine TB in Wales involves a comprehensive range of measures working in partnership with the industry.

"These include annual testing, cattle movement restrictions, free biosecurity advice to farmers, and badger vaccination, and this grant is another tool we are offering.

“Introducing any new animal to a herd can be a potential disease risk.

"All herds in Wales are tested at least once a year but herds in some parts of Great Britain are tested less frequently.

"Therefore, it is particularly important that farmers question the TB history of an animal when purchasing stock from outside Wales and should only express an interest in cattle which has been pre movement tested.

“This grant will help enable markets to make this information readily available at the point of sale to help farmers to make more informed buying decisions and consider what precautions they may need to take.”

Ms Evans added that since 2009 there has been a decline in the number of new herd incidents and total number of animals slaughtered for TB control in Wales.

Grant applications can be submitted until 1 June, and successful applicants could receive up to £2,500 per site.

The grant can also be used for other activities, such as advice to buyers and events, which will encourage farmers to share TB information.